4.7
(447)
2,818
hikers
184
hikes
Hiking around East Knoyle offers diverse trails within the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The region features a mix of open fields, wooded areas, and gentle hills, characteristic of South West England's countryside. East Knoyle is situated on the slopes of a greensand ridge, providing undulating landscapes and scenic views across the Nadder Valley.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.6
(16)
77
hikers
12.2km
03:19
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(4)
5
hikers
9.86km
02:41
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
hikers
18.4km
05:07
350m
350m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
5
hikers
10.5km
02:54
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A lovely pub half way round. Or if you’re tight for time park near here and just walk around the lake
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Interesting feature that looks like it was part of a railway, but clearly it never was.
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Fonthill Lake is part of the Fonthill Estate, which dates back to 1533. The lake is natural but has been landscaped over the years and used to power mills as well as for pleasure. Today it's a great place to run, with a footpath along the western shore.
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Mackintosh Davidson Wood is a nature reserve managed by the Woodland Trust. It's a mixture of ancient and newly planted woodland and some fields and glades. There are several footpaths through the woods.
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Windmill Hill has a nice viewpoint looking south-west. The actual windmill stands to the north-east.
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Hindon is a sleepy Wiltshire village with a history that stretches back to 1218. It has an attractive high street with a couple of pubs, a village shop, and an old church. There is accommodation, too.
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East Knoyle offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 190 trails available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging routes, ensuring options for all fitness levels.
The hiking trails around East Knoyle feature a delightful mixture of open fields, wooded areas, and gentle hills, characteristic of South West England's charming countryside. You'll find paths traversing the greensand ridge, offering undulating landscapes and scenic views across the Nadder Valley.
Yes, many of the trails around East Knoyle are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Fonthill Lake loop from Hinden is a popular moderate circular hike.
Absolutely. East Knoyle has over 70 easy hiking routes. These paths are generally less strenuous and can be a great way for families or those new to hiking to explore the beautiful countryside. Look for routes with minimal elevation gain and shorter distances.
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider trails that incorporate Windmill Hill. At 650ft (198m), it provides unrivalled vistas across the Blackmore Vale into Dorset. The Windmill Viewpoint – View from Windmill Hill loop from East Knoyle is an excellent option for this.
Many public footpaths and trails around East Knoyle are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially when passing through fields with livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons. Please be mindful of local signage and clean up after your pet.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, East Knoyle offers 10 difficult routes. A longer option is the Hindon Village – Holy Trinity Church loop from Fonthill Gifford, which spans over 18 km and features significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding workout.
Yes, the area is rich in natural beauty and points of interest. You can explore the ancient and newly planted woodlands of Mackintosh Davidson Wood, or enjoy the scenic footpath along Fonthill Lake. For impressive viewpoints, consider visiting Cold Kitchen Hill Trig Point or Melbury Beacon.
The trails in East Knoyle are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse terrain, the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside, and the rewarding panoramic views from spots like Windmill Hill.
While East Knoyle is a rural village, it's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to nearby towns. For direct access to many trailheads, driving and utilizing local parking facilities is often the most convenient option.
East Knoyle and its surrounding villages offer charming local pubs and cafes where you can refresh after a hike. These establishments often provide a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to experience local hospitality. It's a good idea to check their opening hours in advance.
East Knoyle offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, and even winter walks can be beautiful, especially on crisp, clear days. Always check weather conditions before heading out.


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